It’s the Month of Merriment – that time of year when the temperature drops and holiday cheer multiplies! Families and friends gather together, delicious treats are ubiquitous and celebratory songs are in the air. Music can really set the mood for any holiday party or long commute to work. Don’t miss your chance to make the most of the hap-happiest season of all! Grab your iPod, smartphone, CD player or turntable, because we’re counting down the top five merry tunes for any occasion with our Month of Merriment #Mixtape.
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My Favorite Things
Appropriately titled, for this is one of our favorite songs of all time. Not originally written for the holiday season, this classic was (of course) created for The Sound of Music. We can’t decide between John Coltrane’s cover or The Supremes’ version so we are listing them both. Impress your friends with the jazz genius of Coltrane’s meandering melody or test out dance moves to The Supremes’ rockin’ 1966 rendition. You’re sure to love both of these selections so much, you’ll listen to them year round.
Come On-a My House
This kitchy hit from 1951 elicits the feel of a mid-century modern holiday party, complete with martinis and tiny hors d’oeuvres. Again, it’s not specifically about the holidays, but you’ll want to do the twist, the bop, the stroll and the cha-cha around a bright pink, heavily tinseled tree before this song is over. Rosemary Clooney, star of such films as White Christmas, belts this tune out with perky panache.
El Burrito Sabañero
Taking the list in a new direction, “a camino de belen” to be specific, El Burrito Sabañero is an upbeat staple of any holiday Mariachi set. Listen for the adorable onomatopoeia as the singer tells his burro to hurry up and get to the destination. We recommend Trio Cubamar’s snappy version. Pair this with Trio Ellas’ vocal masterpiece, Peces en el Rio for a dynamic duo.
In the Bleak Midwinter
Another masterpiece, In the Bleak Midwinter is actually a poem by the great Christina Rosetti set to music. The Blind Boys of Alabama with The Pretenders’ Chrissie Hynde bring the soulfulness of this song to life. Perfect for adding a little gospel to any gathering, In the Bleak Midwinter makes the minor-key tone inspirational. Be prepared to tear up a little between Chrissie’s visceral vocals and the Blind Boys’ a capella accompaniment. Testify!
What Are You Doing New Year’s Eve
How could we forget the romantic side of the season? This cheeky number has the guts to ask a new flame out on a New Year’s date. Nancy Wilson’s take on this tune is our favorite, for no one could resist that voice. We believe that the hypothetical date in question definitely became a reality.
There you have it, our top five versatile holiday songs, sure to impress, inspire or ignite romance. Do you have a favorite holiday tune that we can add to our Month of Merriment #Mixtape? Be sure to tell us in our comment section below. Stop by your fave Bookmans store to peruse our awesome array of music on CD, vinyl and even cassette tape. Ask our friendly staff for gift recommendations or to locate the hard-to-find album for which you’ve been searching. Happy Holidays!